Guyana ferry tragedy death toll reaches 65; recovery efforts expand with international aid

The death toll from the capsizing of the MV Barima ferry off Guyana's coast has risen to 65, with search, rescue, and recovery operations now bolstered by international maritime assets. The Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard and the Brazilian Navy have joined the Guyana-led effort, providing specialized diving support and contributing to a fleet of 19 vessels and three aircraft involved in the operation.

Authorities are working to refloat the overturned vessel, employing salvage airbags to restore buoyancy before towing it closer to shore for continued recovery. Since the previous update, five bodies were recovered, bringing the total to 65. Of these, 44 victims have been identified, and 23 have been released to their families. The number of survivors remains at 76.

In response to the tragedy, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali declared three days of national mourning, with flags flying at half-mast. Hundreds gathered for a National Interfaith Prayer Service in Georgetown, attended by Prime Minister Brigadier Mark Phillips and other government officials. Phillips described the sinking as one of Guyana's darkest moments and extended condolences.

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The sinking of the MV Barima as one of the darkest moments in Guyana’s recent history.